repression
Repression (noun) means the use of force or authority to control or suppress people, especially their rights or freedoms. Example: “The regime was known for its brutal repression of political opponents.”
How to use repression
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishForcefully holding something down, whether it's a population or one's own emotions.
Word forms
repressions plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The regime was known for its brutal _____ of political opponents.
Etymology
Formed from "repress" plus the noun-forming suffix "-ion," ultimately from Latin reprimere ("to press back").
Rhymes for repression
Frequently asked questions
What does “repression” mean?
The word “repression” means the use of force or authority to control or suppress people, especially their rights or freedoms. In plain terms, forcefully holding something down, whether it's a population or one's own emotions.
How do you pronounce “repression”?
“Repression” is pronounced ruh-PREH-shuhn (/ɹəˈpɹɛʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “repression” in a sentence?
Here is “repression” used in a sentence: “The regime was known for its brutal repression of political opponents.”
What part of speech is “repression”?
“Repression” is a noun.
Where does the word “repression” come from?
The word “repression” comes from Latin. Formed from "repress" plus the noun-forming suffix "-ion," ultimately from Latin reprimere ("to press back").
Is “repression” a common word?
“Repression” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “repression” have?
“Repression” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the use of force or authority to control or suppress people, especially their rights or freedoms.